Coffee Review: Himalayan Java Coffee

Free Coffee at Banilad Town Center (BTC)While at the Banilad Town Center for YogaHub's Christmas Party, good buddy and yoga teacher, Jeanne and I stumbled upon a kiosk with yoga apparel and Arabica Nepali coffee - Himalayan Java. We got into a friendly chat with Ella, the proprietress - even offered us free coffee. Christmas happened early for me when Ella gave me a full pack of Himalayan Java beans. Whoa! How cool is that?

Coffee BreakfastAfter stopping by Seattle's Best to have it ground, finally, I could savour the brew. With Jeanne to join me for breakfast (I'm crashing at her yoga studio, Dragonfly Yoga Studio), we were having our usual Theosophical morning debate (is it possible to achieve enlightenment without a guru?) but this time, with an arabica coffee dimension.

Coffee PassionI used to be called Mr. Cappuccino by New York friends (Queens) when I would host coffee parties where I play barrista, using exotic coffee blends to whip-up little-known coffee recipes by coffee luminaries where brewing methods ranged from French Press, Drip and Espresso machine. I miss those caffeine heady days.

VerdictAt 1500 MASL (meters above sea level), mountain grown coffee like that of Sagada can put you on Nirvanic heights. How much more with Nepal's elevation (Mt. Everest is in Nepal!)? Himalayan Java's aroma is subtle with an almost patrician demeanor - imagine a well-heeled lady's fragrance where you get a whiff and you're lured to follow it, instead of taking cover. Texture? I think this is where it shines the most. Think Sade's rendition of "No Ordinary Love" - velvety smooth, you almost feel like resting your back on a soft spongy coral as it undulates with the current. Acidity is noticeable but not overwhelming - a good quality, almost reminiscent of Kenya AA. Overall, I would rank this coffee in the upper-tier of coffeedom. Thinking of a gift to someone who already has everything? This one will make you look good. Two enthusiastic thumbs up!